Artists spend time choosing materials, layering paint, and refining compositions, but once it’s finished, the big question usually comes up: Do I need to frame this canvas? The honest answer is it depends. There’s no strict rule, and both framed and unframed canvases have their place. What matters most is the artwork, your intent, and how you want it to be experienced.
Painting big feels different. It asks more from your body, your materials and your mindset. Whether you’re stretching your first oversized canvas or prepping for a mural, large-scale work pushes you into new territory. Here are practical tips that make the jump easier and a lot more enjoyable.
If you’ve ever stood in an art store trying to decide between a $10 canvas and a $40 one and wondered why they cost so differently when they’re both “cotton,” you’re not alone. Let’s clear the air. Not all cotton canvases are created equal, and knowing the difference can save you money, stress, and a lot of paint.
Here’s what actually separates the bargain bin from the premium wall.
Whether you’re a beginner experimenting with acrylics or a pro juggling gallery work, rising art supply costs can feel like a real creative barrier. Many contemporary artists have seen and felt that pinch but with a bit of planning and creativity, you can keep painting even when the budget tightens. Here’s how.
If you’re curious about encaustic painting–that rich, luminous art form using molten beeswax and resin–you’ve probably wondered: what’s the best surface to work on? Here’s why wood panels shine in encaustic painting, and what to watch out for if you’re just starting or refining your craft.
Whether you’re just starting out or have framed a few gallery pieces, certain pitfalls keep tripping up painters again and again. Here are those common art mistakes and how fixing them can really improve your work.
If you’re exploring large-scale painting, using wood panels can be surprisingly rewarding. Unlike canvas, wood offers a smooth, rigid surface that gives you more control, stronger color, and long-term stability. Whether you’re a professor explaining materials, a hobbyist building your first big piece, or a professional artist looking to switch surfaces, here are some key things to know.
When you’re sitting with a fresh canvas (or panel) and an idea starting to form, one of the biggest opportunities and one of the most under-used is layering. Many beginners try to do everything in one go. But taking your time, building your piece in layers, can improve your work in ways that feel effortless once you get the hang of it.
If you’re a painter whether beginner, hobbyist, lecturer or pro, and you’ve mostly worked on canvas, considering a structured support like a wood panel for mixed media might open up fresh possibilities. Here’s a guide on combining mixed media with wood panels.
When you’ve put in the effort to create a painting on a wood panel, transporting and storing that work properly is just as important as the painting itself. Here are practical steps to help keep your work safe, flat, and ready for display or shipping.